This novel written by Mary Downing Hahn has been one of my favorites because the main character, Kelly, who is in the beginning sarcastic and arrogant comes to see herself as well as her family and friends as the individuals that they are. Kelly at first feels judged by her father and friends for being an artistic, creative and caring teenager, but she also judges others based on her standards. Eventually she is able to give her father and her friends what she has been craving, acceptance. The novel also puts you in touch with the issues of homelessness, post tramatic stress disorder and the effects of the Vietnam War. The characters and plot line are well planned as well as interesting theme discussions came up as we read this novel.
